Winona Area Public Schools is rebuilding and reimagining career and technical education programming for its students, and another major community partner is stepping forward to help shape the future.
Fastenal has committed to supporting the Forging a Future initiative as a Workforce Development Strategic Partner. In addition to generous financial support, Fastenal will continue to inspire, engage and empower WAPS students through collaboration on career exploration opportunities, workforce-aligned learning experiences and industry engagement for both students and staff.
The partnership reflects a shared commitment to preparing students for future careers while strengthening the long-term workforce needs of the Winona community.
“At Fastenal, innovation, technology and workforce development are core values,” said Jordan York, VP of Quality & Engineering. “Strong partnerships with local education systems help support not only our current and future workforce, but also our employees’ families and the long-term vitality of the region. We are excited about the opportunity to support and grow the Forging a Future program and collaborate with Winona Area Public Schools in meaningful, lasting ways.”
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Fastenal will continue to be involved with the Forging a Future advisory committee, and will help with career pathway development, student tours and field trips, classroom and equipment support, as well as teacher workshops.
“This partnership is about much more than a donation,” WAPS Superintendent Brad Berzinski said. “Fastenal is helping us create meaningful experiences and opportunities for students while helping ensure our programs remain connected to the needs of today’s workforce. We are incredibly grateful for their belief in our students and their willingness to invest in the future of our community.”
Forging a Future began in the spring of 2023 when Winona Area Public Schools brought together local manufacturers, business leaders and educational partners to help rebuild career and technical education opportunities for students. Since then, the district has expanded work-based learning opportunities, strengthened partnerships with local businesses and educational institutions and introduced additional hands-on learning experiences for students.
The Foundation for Winona Area Public Schools recently announced that $326,000 was raised for the campaign in support of the district’s long-term goal to raise $540,000 to advance these industrial technology pathways. Fastenal has committed $50,000 to this effort, which included a $25,000 outright gift and $25,000 in matching funds connected to the Forging a Future Dinner & Auction fundraiser, which was held on May 9.
